Programme to Support the Solidarity Initiatives for Development (Programme d’Appui aux Initiatives de Solidarité pour le Développement / The Co-Development Programme)

This bilateral program aims to facilitate actions undertaken by Senegalese diaspora members living in France for the economic and social development of their country of origin. It has four main components:

1. support diaspora entrepreneurs willing to create businesses in Senegal through technical assistance;
2. mobilize highly qualified diaspora members for short expertise missions in Senegal;
3.  co-fund local development projects undertaken by Senegalese migrants associations in regions of origin (health facilities, schools etc), and;
4. mobilize 2nd and 3rd generations of Senegalese diaspora to participate in voluntary missions for development projects in Senegal.

An evaluation of this programme has been conducted in 2013. It underlines the positive results achieved: between 2009 and 2012, 485 diaspora entrepreneurs have been supported, 62 experts mobilized and 132 businesses created. Some improvements are nonetheless necessary to increase access to financial services for diaspora entrepreneurs and ensure a better follow-up after business creation (business development services, training etc).

For more information: http://www.codev.gouv.sn/

GFMD 2013-2014 - RT 2.2 Background Paper 'Facilitating positive development impacts of diaspora engagement in skills transfers, investments and trade between countries of residence and origin'

Government of France and Government of Senegal.